'So many benefits': Kildare animal charity highlights importance of 'No Mow May'. FILE PHOTOGRAPH / PIXABAY

'So many benefits': Kildare animal charity highlights importance of 'No Mow May'

The campaign 'goes hand in hand' with the Hedge Cutting Ban

01 May 2026, 10:00 by Ciarán Mather · Leinster Leader

An animal charity based in County Kildare has highlighted the importance of an environmental initiative known as 'No Mow May'.

According to Kildare Wildlife Rescue (KWR), 'No Mow May works hand in hand with the Hedge Cutting Ban' (which is in place March 1 to August 31) by supporting insect populations, especially bees and butterflies.

KWR elaborated: "Allowing your grass to grow allows for wildflowers to bloom, creates valuable habitat for insects, increases biodiversity, and supports local wildlife.

"It's easy and accessible and helps reduce environmental impacts through the reduction of noise and fuel emissions."

KWR further said: "Did you know that one third of Irish Bees are at risk of extinction?

"Allowing the grass to grow benefits bees by creating spaces where wildflowers can grow supplying valuable nectar.

"And did you also know that the majority of butterflies in Ireland rely on native wildflower plants as a source of food for their larva (caterpillars)?

"An estimated 90 per cent of garden birds in Ireland feed their young exclusively on insects; leaving your grass alone for the month of May supplies valuable habitat for insects that garden birds rely on."

"There are so many benefits to letting your grass grow this May, and we hope you get involved!," KWR concluded.

BRIEF BACKGROUND

KWR is a registered charity which was established in early 2022. It later acquired its centre in July of that same year.

The organisation's site is divided into a number of areas and pens, which are specially designated for a different type of wild animal.

KWR is currently led by its manager, Dan Donoher, who is also known for his previous work with Kildare Animal Foundation.